Central Connecticut State University is committed to ending sexual assault and interpersonal violence. These acts may be a violation of the law and the CCSU
Student Code of Conduct. It is essential that they be reported to University officials and treated seriously, consistent with University Policies and Procedures and
the laws that govern the State of Connecticut. We strongly believe that all students, faculty and staff members have the right to an environment that is free of
violence and fear. CCSU's commitment to promoting an safe environment involves all efforts of various University services and outside agencies that work together to
provide a supportive and safe environment for all victims of sexual assault and interpersonal violence. CCSU's goal is to cultivate a campus culture that empowers students and others to take a stand against sexual assault and interpersonal violence.

What is Sexual Assault?

Sexual assault is a crime and will not be tolerated at CCSU. Sexual assault is compelling by force, or threat of force, the following: sexual penetration of the
vagina or anus, including by an object; oral sex; or contact with a person's genital area, groin, anus, inner thighs, buttocks or breasts for the purpose of sexual
gratification of the actor or for the purpose of degrading or humiliating the victim. Sexual assault is also intentionally subjecting another to such contact without
consent. Any person can be a victim or a perpetrator. Examples of sexual assault include: rape, attempted rape, intentional touching, without consent, of a person's
genital area, groin, anus, inner thighs, buttocks or breasts for sexual gratification or to degrade the victim.

What is Interpersonal Violence?

It is very important to understand what interpersonal violence is so that we can identify it when it occurs. Many times we think we know what it is and how it
happens but in reality our understanding of interpersonal violence may not be accurate. Interpersonal violence is the use of physical force involving relations between
persons (more than one individual), stalking, and communications between persons if those communications are obscene, defamatory, intended to incite immediate physical
violence or seriously threaten physical violence. Examples of interpersonal violence include: rape, domestic of family violence involving physical force, stalking,
texting that contains obscene material, and online communications that contain serious threats of physical violence.

Examples of Sexual Assault/Interpersonal Violence:

Stalking

Rape

Obscene Texting

Inappropriate Touching

What is Consent?

Agreeing to specific sexual behavior willingly.

Consent is active; both parties say yes.

It is ongoing and can be withdrawn at any time without fear or explanation.

Obtaining consent is the responsibility of the individual initiating the sexual contact.

Consent is a must for every form of sexual activity every time. You have the right to withdraw consent even if you have consented to sexual activity with the individual in the past.

Consent is not valid if forced, threatened, intimidated or coerced.

Consent is not valid when judgement is impaired by the use of alcohol/drugs or if the person not initiating is sleeping or unconscious.

Connecticut State Law is clear that having sexual intercourse with someone who cannot consent is RAPE.

How Can I Stop Sexual Assault/ Interpersonal Violence at CCSU?

Sexual Assault and Interpersonal Violence are complex and very real issue on college campuses today. In order to address this reality, all members of the campus
community and relevant outside agencies must work together. Public safety is everyone's responsibility. By increasing your own knowledge and acknowledging your ability
to make a difference at CCSU, you can begin to reduce the risk. Consider the following ways you can work to stop sexual violence and interpersonal violence.

Speak up. Take a stand in situations that could escalate to sexual abuse/interpersonal violence.

As a victim/survivor of sexual assault or interpersonal violence, some individuals may feel some of the following:

Anger

Fear

Guilt

Loss of Control

Powerlessness

Embarrassment

Depression

Denial

Shame

Disbelief

Confusion

Self-Blame

Emotional Shock

Isolation

These feelings are completely natural and every victim/survivor of sexual assault and interpersonal violence responds differently.

Victims/ Survivors of Sexual Assault & Interpersonal Violence Have the Right to:

Be treated with respect and dignity.

Privacy. This means you can refuse to answer any questions about the sexual assault, your sexual orientations, your sexual history, your medical history (including HIV status), and your mental health history.

Be considered a victim/survivor of sexual assault, regardless of the offender's relationship to you.

Resources Available to Provide Support, Information and Services

If you have been sexually assaulted, recognize that it is not your fault. You are not alone on the CCSU campus. There are people on campus who are here to support you.

For Medical Attention:

Even if you don't think you have any physical injuries, you should consider having a medical exam as soon as possible:

to check for internal injury;

to receive treatment for possible sexually-transmitted diseases or pregnancy; and

to conduct a sexual assault exam to collect and preserve any physical evidence should you decide to press charges at the time or in the future.

If this is an emergency, call 911.

University Police: (860) 832-2375

Student Wellness Services, Health Services: (860) 832-1925

For Confidential Counseling, Guidance, and Treatment:

Speaking with a trained counselor or advocate in a confidential environment can help you deal with what has happened and better understand the options available to you.
The Counseling and Wellness Center has crisis hours in addition to the regular hours to provide support for you. Unless required by law, (i.e., the victim is a minor,
you or someone else is in physical danger) these individuals will not take any action without your written consent.

We strongly recommend reporting a sexual assault to a College representative. Reporting is the only way the College can take action against the alleged perpetrator. The following departments can assist you in receiving the judicial and legal resources that are available to you.